<p>After two weeks of contemplating, I am still having a tough time deciding between two schools, USC and Dartmouth. I really love both schools despite the completely different school settings. Both of these schools have the things that are important to me, such as school spirit and a great sense of school community, so the deciding factor between the two schools would be which one is more likely to help me get into medical school. I know that USC is a great research institute and that Dartmouth has a great alumni support system, so what, in your opinion, is more important to medical schools: great research opportunities, or great internships and meaningful study abroad programs? Also, what do you guys feels about the GPA system at both schools, regarding grade inflation and deflation. I read on the premed thread that Dartmouth is a grade inflated school and that an engineering major is generally hard on GPAs. </p>
<p>A little background information, I was granted the merit research opportunity at USC and am planning on majoring in Biomedical Engineering there. As for Dartmouth, Im undecided. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.</p>
<p>As you know, EC's are crucial for med school applications and an opportunity like the one at USC doesn't come by often. Choose USC.</p>
<p>Tell us what the "merit research opportunity" entails.</p>
<p>Obviously Dartmouth is often considered the stronger school overall. The access to internships matters a great deal, but a significant, high-level amount of research at USC could swing it - not just for med school admissions, but actually for your education.</p>
<p>Go to USC...Big time Div I sports are/were important to me getting the most out of life/college. The school spirit and community will be way better and more fun than any sort of thing Dartmouth could put together. (although Dartmouth does have the "stronger" greek system, or at least more vital to campus greek system...hmm, this is a tough decision).</p>
<p>I guess if sports is your thing, then USC. If just overall having a good time, then Dartmouth.</p>
<p>Thanks for the responses. Here is the background of the Merit Research Award, which says it's granted to 1% of their entering freshmen class. In the letter it stated: Among other benefits, this award allows you to become involved in research with our faculty and earn up to $3000 during the academic year while you gain hands-on experience in one of our many laboratories.
From their website, I see they have core research laboratory facilities in the following area:
Biomedical Imaging
Other Biomedical Resources
Computing and Statistics
Digital Archival and Media Resources
Engineering and Science Resources
Genomics </p>
<p>I guess my question is how much will the undergraduate lab research experience enhance my chance to get into a Med school compared to the resources that are available to me at Dartmouth?</p>
<p>I'm sure many Dartmouth undergrads conduct research, so it sounds to me like it takes one of Dartmouth's key advantages (research opportunities) and turns it into a neutral factor.</p>